Project GS23WOPT: Wolves in Portugal

The Iberian wolf, inhabiting the Iberian Peninsula, is one of the many subspecies of wolves found in the world. While in the past the Iberian wolf was distributed throughout the peninsula, it occurs now in only about 20% of its original distribution area, in Portugal mainly to the north and central north. The wolf is one of those species whose habitat has substantially declined in all parts of the globe. In Portugal, the Iberian wolf is threatened with extinction and is fully protected by a national law since 1988.

We shall have to take positive and concrete action, and act quickly and efficiently, if we want to avoid the very real danger of wolf extinction.

Project

Volunteer work with wolves in Portugal; The Wolf project was created in 1987 by an independent, non-profit association, devoted to the conservation of the Iberian wolf and its habitat in Portugal. This project was founded with the aim of providing an adequate captivity environment for wolves no longer able to live in the wild and to promote the wolf.

Participating at this project is intended for volunteers who want to help conserve and protect one of nature’s most beautiful and mysterious creatures; the Iberian wolf. The work of the volunteers is of extreme importance for the development and continuance of the Centre. By raising more understanding and true compassion for the Iberian wolf, the project is convinced to keep this wonderful animal from extinction.

The project staff consists of three persons, (who are not exclusively devoted to the volunteers). The staff is enthusiastic and enjoys training and working with volunteers from different countries. The language spoken at this project is English.

The project location is situated about 20 km from Portugal’s capital Lisbon. The centre is located in a forested valley. In the surroundings there is a rich natural and cultural heritage, more nature reserves and also the sea is close by. There are a lot of things to do in your leisure time. For example: explore the beautiful surrounding region of the forests and coast line. Visit different towns like the historical city Mafra and Lisbon. You can make arrangements with the site manager about (extra) days of.

You will be responsible for travelling and arranging your own transport to the project in Portugal. Detailed travel information will be provided after you’ve booked.

Volunteers will be accommodated in one of the chalets. The houses are fully equipped with all modern conveniences. The first house (big house) has 2 bedrooms (1 room for 4 and 1 for 2 persons. The second house (small house) has 1 bedroom (for 2 persons). Other facilities like kitchen, where you can prepare your own meals, and bathroom, are shared by all occupants.

Able to communicate in English (or in Spanish/Portuguese) and to work in a team;

Being interested in animals and having a good physical condition;

If you’re interested in staying more than 2 weeks, you need to write a motivation letter;

There are no vaccinations required at this project, but we recommend you to be vaccinated against DTP and Hepatitis A. (For additional vaccines and/or information we advise you to visit your local clinic).

Volunteers are welcome all year round (except December and January). Untill the end of November you are free to choose your own arrival date (preferably on a Tuesday or Wednesday and arrivel/departure not possible in the weekend). Minimum duration of your stay is 11 days (10 nights). For 2019 there are scheduled arrival dates and several scheduled departure dates. The possible participation periods are:

Global Spirit is an organization that has been committed to and provides assistance to nature organizations in different parts of the world for almost 15 years. By sending volunteers to these organizations they are not only helped financially, but also by manpower.